15 things you probably didn't know about the Chinese New Year

This weekend will see millions of people around the world celebrate Chinese New Year, but unlike the Gregorian calendar (that's our usual January - December calendar) the Chinese year varies in length.

Here are 15 other facts you might not know about the Chinese New Year.

1. Chinese New Year has been celebrated for over 4000 years.

2. It is also know as Spring Festival.

3. The Chinese New Year is determined by the lunar calendar so (like Easter) the date always varies.

4. Each year is represented by an animal which is a sign of the Chinese zodiac. There are 12 animals that are represented and they repeat in sequence.

5. This year's animal is the Rooster. People born in this year are characterised as honest, energetic, intelligent, flexible and confident.

6. Chinese New Year celebrations aren't just for one day. The New Year starts with the new Moon and ends with the full Moon 15 days later. This New Year starts on the 28th January and lasts until the 15th February 2017.

7. The festivities surrounding the New Year last from the day before the New Year until the Lantern Festival which is on the 15th day of the New Year.

8. On the 15th day of the New Year (when the Moon is full) it is customary to eat sweet dumplings called yuanxiao which are in the shape of the full Moon. Fish is widely eaten for New Year, symbolic of year upon year, you will have an abundance of fish to catch and eat, this relates to ancient Chinese farming culture. Lanterns and oranges are also used as part of the celebrations.

9. Chinese New Year is the longest and most important celebration in the Chinese calendar.

10. Every year millions of people travel back to be with their families for Chinese New Year. The tweet below shows people queuing at the main train station in Guangzhou in 2016.

11. The colour red symbolizes fire, good fortune and joy and can be found everywhere during Chinese New Year.

12. Billions of married Chinese couples give red envelopes containing cash for New Year. Usually it is younger couples who give red envelopes to the older generation as a sign of respect, or to young children.

13. On the stroke of midnight every door and window must be opened to let the old year out.

14. Traditionally you shouldn't wash your hair or clothes on the first day of the New Year.

15. Black or white clothes are banned over the New Year as they are associated with mourning.

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